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Pictures of Swanage

About Swanage

Casting a glance around this popular coastal resort town few would imagine Swanage Bay to have been the scene of a fierce naval battle in which King Alfred was victorious over the Danes in 877. These days it is a happy, orderly, coastal holiday resort of immense charm which attracts families and visiting yachtsmen. Swanage Bay is excellent for sea-sports, bathing is mostly safe except in the area close to Ballard Cliff, for the sea here can sometimes be treacherous. There is a good diving school operating from the pier, boats can be hired and deep sea fishing trips can be arranged.

The town is wedged between towering downs that result in lofty cliffs at both ends of the bay, from these high vantage points there are spectacular views across the sea and over the calm countryside of the beautiful Isle of Purbeck. Winding, switchback streets, weave down to a pretty town with the usual collection of sea-side shops, inns and restaurants. There are a few pieces of grand 'showpiece' architecture in Swanage. The Town Hall, built in 1883 has a fascia which was once the front to the Mercers Hall in Cheapside, London. Built of stone, it is reputed to have been designed by Sir Christopher Wren-it is perfectly proportioned, reflecting the classical elegance of Wren's designs. The Wellington Clock Tower is also from London, it was brought to Swanage in 1867. The 13th-century church dedicated to St.Mary the Virgin is the resorts oldest building. Standing next to the Millpond it occupies one of the resorts finest locations.

This is a small town that offers every kind of experience, a visit to nearby Durlston Country Park reveals 280 acres of natural countryside, coastal-cliffs, haymeadows, woods and limestone downland. It is home to a variety of wildlife including sea-birds, butterflies and other creatures of the wild. The park is rich with natural plants, delicate wild flowers thrive in hedgerows and in spring the ground beneath the woods is carpeted with pretty bluebells. On a sunny day there are fantastic views, clear blue skies reflect in an azure sea, tinged gold by the rays of the sun. Durlston is a lovely place, perfect for all the family.

Places to visit include: Corfe Castle, The Church of St.Mary the Virgin, Swanage Railway, The Coach House Museum, Studland Bay and Durlston Country Park.

Interesting & Historical Facts about Swanage

After the author H G Wells died in London in 1946, his sons decided to spread his ashes between Dorset and the Isle of Wight. Leaving Poole harbour, the Channel was very choppy bobbing their hired boat, The Diedre, about. They abandoned their original idea, and when abeam Old Harry rock near Swanage, spread his ashes to the wind there instead.

Nearby towns & villages..

Beyond the woods, heaths and downs of Dorset lies a fascinating coastline with a hinterland of precious little villages, such a village is Studland which sits close to the wide sweep of picturesque Studland Bay, which belongs to the National Trust...

Hotels & Accommodation in Swanage

Bayview

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.0 miles, 0.1 km)Set 15 minutes' drive from Corfe Castle, this holiday home features a patio. The kitchen has an oven. A flat-screen TV and DVD player is offered. The nearest airport is Bournemouth Airport, 21 km fr...More info and book online..Price from £180.00

Oxford Terrace

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.1 miles, 0.1 km)Oxford Terrace is a holiday home located in Swanage in the Dorset Region and is 8 km from Corfe Castle. You can fire up the barbecue for a tasty meal and enjoy the garden in fair weather. Free WiFi is...More info and book online..Price from £154.00

Sandringham Court Flat 4

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.1 miles, 0.2 km)Sandringham Court Flat 4 is a holiday home is situated in Swanage is 8 km from Corfe Castle. It provides free private parking. There is a dining area and a kitchen as well as a private bathroom. A TV...More info and book online..

Chestnut Mews

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.2 miles, 0.3 km)Chestnut Mews is a holiday home situated in Swanage, 8 km from Corfe Castle. It provides free private parking. A dishwasher and an oven can be found in the kitchen and there is a private bathroom. A ...More info and book online..

Millbrook Guest House

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.2 miles, 0.3 km)The family-run Millbrook Guest House in Swanage has a town centre location and offers a full English breakfast. Less than 5 minutes’ walk from the Swanage Steam Railway, this Dorset guest house prov...More info and book online..Price from £75.00

Robertsbrook Guest House

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.3 miles, 0.4 km)Less than 5 minutes’ walk from the sea, Robertsbrook Guest House is located opposite the Swanage steam railway station. On Dorset’s Jurassic coast, this stylish bed and breakfast provides free par...More info and book online..Price from £80.00

Town Hall Lodge

Swanage, Dorset, England (0.3 miles, 0.5 km)Set in a cobbled courtyard down a quiet lane in Swanage town centre, Town Hall Lodge offers fresh local produce in its varied breakfast menu. The Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site, and the sandy b...More info and book online..Price from £109.00